He then embarked on a 22-city bus tour that included stops in Palm Beach County and drew good crowds while introducing Putnam to all the state’s media markets..

A former state House and U.S. House member elected ag commissioner in 2010, Putnam is considered the front runner for the GOP nomination to succeed term-limited Gov. Rick Scott. Republican Liberty Caucus Chairman Bob White of Melbourne announced his candidacy Monday. State Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, and House Speaker Richard Corcoran, R-Land-O’Lakes, are also eyeing the race.